Despite my diffidence towards jazz I've enjoyed both of my visits at Jimmy Mak's. Their menu is varied and the food is well prepared. I've enjoyed the salmon on both occasions and they get my special request to double the veggies and skip the potatoes right each time. My husband's blackened hanger steak lived up to his rather discerning expectations.
But really, Jimmy Mak's is the place for live jazz and here they don't disappoint. They moved relatively recently to a new location. There is no smoking so that makes it easier on the 80%+ of the population that doesn't smoke. The acoustics are fantastic. We were there on a Thursday night with an organ, bass guitar, sax and drums. At one point the music was rather loud, but there was no degradation in the sound. No weird echos or blaring. A friend brought ear plugs since the old place could get painful, but never needed them.
The schedule is quite nice too. Dinner is from 7-8. The first set is from 8pm-9:30pm. At that time all minors must leave. Then from 10 till 11pm they play the last set.
I understand the bands on Thursdays are more accessible than perhaps on other nights, so if you're a little iffy on jazz, consider trying Thursdays. We were there on a recent Thursday and it was great.
I'd recommend trying Jimmy Maks especially if someone if visiting from out of town and they enjoy jazz. They will enjoy the food and the music.
